Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James added another remarkable milestone to his Hall-of-Fame resume on Thursday night, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to record a triple-double at 41 years and 44 days old during a 124-104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. James finished with 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds, surpassing the previous record held by Karl Malone (40 years, 127 days). 

James’ triple-double – his first of the 2025-26 season – came in the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break, pushing their record to 33-21 and snapping a brief two-game skid. The 23-year NBA veteran scored or assisted on Los Angeles’ first 23 points of the night, a franchise milestone for his career longevity and impact. 

James’ performance stood out as a statement of his sustained excellence deep into his 20th+ season. His 28-10-12 box score marked the 123rd career triple-double, placing him among the top five all-time in NBA history. 

Before Thursday, Karl Malone held the oldest triple-double record since 2003 when he posted a 10-11-10 line at 40 years and 127 days old. James not only eclipsed Malone’s mark, but now formally holds the distinction as the only 41-year-old in NBA history to log a triple-double. 

LeBron’s longevity from entering the league as a No. 1 overall pick in 2003 to still producing historic stat lines in 2026 underscores his unique career arc. Even with intermittent missed games this season due to injuries, he continues to defy age-related expectations and contribute at an All-Star level. 

James’ record encapsulates a career defined by adaptability and sustained excellence. Recording a triple-double at 41 which is a feat most thought impossible at such an advanced basketball age signals that James is rewriting the NBA’s longevity narrative even as he approaches what many expect will be the twilight of his playing days. 

This milestone also adds context to the Lakers’ All-Star aspirations, with James’ name once again at the forefront of league storylines heading into the All-Star festivities this weekend.